Rugby brings bar business to a head
THE Sevens have set cash registers ringing around the territory, with the two-day rugby extravaganza pumping $80.2 million into the local economy.
The annual event has seen plane-loads of sports fans filling hotels, cramming restaurants and packing bars.
And by the time they leave, about 12,000 extra tourists will each have spent an average of $6,684 on accommodation, food and drink, according to the Hong Kong Tourist Association.
Bartenders across the territory are recording record beer sales. At the King's Arms in Causeway Bay, manager Rocky Leung said clients and profits had doubled over the past week.
And Joe Bananas, in Wan Chai, is staying open 24 hours to keep up with demand.
Restaurants are also reporting increased business. Jimmy Lee, manager of Causeway Bay's Red Pepper, said beer sales had doubled.
